Zandvoort's sold-out events congress highlights economic and social benefits for local communities
Over 1,000 professionals gathered in Zandvoort for the sold-out National Congress for Events, exploring how festivals and gatherings boost local economies and community spirit. Residents and businesses benefit from increased visitors, revenue, and shared experiences year-round.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 11th National Congress for Events |
| Location | Zandvoort, Netherlands |
| Date | March 9, 2026 |
| Attendance | Sold out (first time in 11 years) |
| Sectors Represented | Events, tourism, leisure |
| Keynote Speaker | Ahmed Aboutaleb, Former Mayor of Rotterdam |
| Award Winners | Amsterdam 750 (Public Event), Roze Zaterdag Zaanstad (Impact Award) |
| Municipality of Utrecht (Event City of the Year), GLOW Eindhoven (Grand Prix) | |
| Main Venues | Circuit Zandvoort, Beachclub Far Out, Theater De Krocht, Zandvoort Museum |
| Organiser | Respons • Evenementen |
The Municipality of Zandvoort plays a key role in facilitating and promoting events that drive local economic growth and community engagement. By hosting the National Congress for Events, the municipality highlights its commitment to supporting the events sector and showcasing Zandvoort as a prime location for gatherings.
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Zandvoort hosts sold-out 11th edition of the National Congress for Events
On Monday, March 9, the 11th edition of the National Congress for Events took place in Zandvoort. For the first time in 11 years, the congress was completely sold out. Professionals from the events, tourism, and leisure sectors from across the Netherlands gathered in Zandvoort to share knowledge and experiences.
The day began with a welcome address by Mayor David Moolenburgh and Alderman Lars Carree. They spoke about the importance of events for Zandvoort. Events bring visitors and revenue to local businesses. But they are also important for residents, fostering encounters, vibrancy, and shared experiences in the village.
Programme across multiple locations
The congress day started with an active morning programme at Circuit Zandvoort. The programme then continued on the beach and in the village. Beachclub Far Out served as the main venue for the congress.
Participants attended various inspirational sessions at different locations in Zandvoort. These included Strandpaviljoen Plazand, the Council Chamber of the town hall, Theater De Krocht, the Zandvoort Museum, Gamestate Circus Zandvoort, and again Beachclub Far Out. This gave visitors a good impression of Zandvoort and the various places where events can be held.
During the sessions, participants discussed, among other things, the collaboration between volunteers and professionals in events. They also talked about the value of sports events, such as how they contribute to activity in a municipality even outside the peak season.
Inspiring keynote and awards
Master of ceremonies Marceline Schopman led the programme. Former Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb delivered the keynote speech. He spoke about the importance of public events for cities and towns. According to him, events foster encounters, pride, and a sense of community.
At the end of the day, the National Event Awards were presented. The winners were Amsterdam 750 (Public Event), Roze Zaterdag Zaanstad (Impact Award), Municipality of Utrecht (Event City of the Year), and GLOW Eindhoven, which received the lifetime achievement award Grand Prix.
Proud of hosting
The Municipality of Zandvoort looks back with pride on the congress. Together with organiser Respons • Evenementen | Toerisme | Citymarketing and other partners, an inspiring day was organised.
The congress once again demonstrated how important events are. They bring people together, create vibrancy in the village, and contribute to the local economy.